China's premier is on a charm offensive as Asean summit protests Beijing's aggression at sea

[Collection]Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China's importance as the world's second-largest economy and top trading partner in talks with Southeast Asian leaders. He highlighted China's history of friendship and cooperation with Southeast Asia, including joint efforts to combat the pandemic. However, rival claimant states in the South China Sea have protested China's aggressive actions to fortify its territorial claims.